DaysofPal- Ships participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla have arrived at the port of Syracuse on the Italian island of Sicily, marking a key stage in their journey toward Gaza as part of a humanitarian mission aimed at breaking the Israeli blockade.
The convoy, launched on April 12 from Barcelona, Spain, is part of the “Spring 2026 Mission.”
It brings together civil society representatives, activists, and volunteers from around the world with the stated goal of delivering humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Organizers say the initiative could eventually include around 100 vessels from countries including Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey.
This marks the second such effort by the fleet, where a previous attempt in September 2025 ended, according to organizers, when Israeli forces intercepted the ships in international waters in October, detaining hundreds of activists before deporting them.
Saif Abu Kashk, a member of the fleet’s international board, described the first phase of the current voyage as “successful,” claiming that one of the world’s largest cargo ships carrying goods to Israeli occupation was forced to alter its course during the journey.
“Our ultimate goal is to break the blockade and reach Gaza,” he said.
“I do not know what the outcome of this mission will be, but we will continue until we achieve it. We will never stop.” He added.
Brazilian activist Thiago Avila, participating for the third time, said the mission seeks to “break the illegal blockade on Gaza and open a people-led humanitarian corridor.”
He expressed confidence that this attempt would succeed due to the larger number of vessels, better preparation, and increased global solidarity.
Italian activist Antonio La Piccirrella emphasized the urgency of action, saying: “The greatest risk is doing nothing.”
He criticized the international community’s response, arguing that state institutions have proven insufficient and that citizens must act independently.
Maria Elena Delia, spokesperson for the fleet in Italy, said the renewed effort reflects the fact that “the situation in Gaza has not fundamentally changed,” pointing to continued casualties despite a ceasefire announced in October 2025.
She added that the mission aims to reject the ongoing atrocities and to demand the establishment of a permanent humanitarian corridor.
“Numbers are not the most important factor,” she said.
“Even if we had only three ships, the message would remain the same. If governments continue to ignore violations of international law and human rights, people cannot do so.” She added.
Israeli occupation has maintained a blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007. According to Palestinian sources, the ongoing war since October 2023 has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and a severe humanitarian crisis.
The territory continues to face strict Israeli restrictions on the entry of aid, fuel, and medical supplies, alongside critical shortages of medicines and equipment.
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